Newlyweds Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann are settling into a new life in Nebraska as they are eager to embrace the next chapter in their lives after exchanging vows in a 'classic, elegant' wedding in Arkansas.
- August 18, 2024
AceShowbiz - Jana Duggar, 34, the former "Counting On" star, and Stephen Wissmann, 31, recently tied the knot on August 15 in a heartfelt ceremony in Prairie Grove, Arkansas. Their love story, rekindled after years apart, is now set to unfold in Wissmann's hometown of Nebraska.
"He has a little house we bought that we've been fixing up and getting pulled together, and so that's been fun," Jana told PEOPLE.
The couple's history dates back more than a decade. They first met when Stephen's family took refuge with the Duggars during a snowstorm. Despite a brief dating period a few years ago, they broke up but remained in touch. Their relationship reignited earlier this year, leading to Stephen's proposal on June 15.
Jana, one of the last of the adult-age Duggar siblings to marry, follows in the footsteps of her numerous siblings who have found love and started families of their own. Her brother Jeremiah even married Stephen's sister, Hannah, establishing a unique connection between the two families.
Nebraska serves as the perfect backdrop for their story. Stephen purchased a five-bedroom home in Lincoln in 2023, and the couple is excitedly moving in. His family lives nearby in Milford and owns a construction company where Stephen works. Additionally, Stephen is a pastor and Bible study leader at East Fairview Mennonite Church in Milford.
The wedding was a true family affair, with Jana's brother-in-law Abbie officiating and her sisters Jessa, Jinger, Joy-Anna, Johannah, and Jordyn serving as bridesmaids. Stephen's family played a significant role, preparing dinner for the 500 guests at the reception.
Reflecting on her journey to find love, Jana shared, "I haven't always understood what the bigger picture is, but I know that God knows what is best for all of us. And so for me, it's getting married later." Her patience and faith have now rewarded her with a sweet and promising beginning to her married life.
"Just doing life together with Stephen and being together," says Jana. "It's been a challenge being long distance, so I think just being together, being able to just have someone that you do everyday life. It's a sweet time that I've hoped for and wanted for a while."
